Airbnb launches car rentals in over 300 Brazilian cities

Airbnb is launching its car rental platform across more than 300 Brazilian cities, including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília. The vehicles will be provided by partner rental firms and can be booked even by users without an accommodation stay on the platform. On their first rental, customers will receive 20% of the value as credit toward a future booking or experience, with discounts of up to 20% available through preferred partners.

The roll-out enters a Brazilian vehicle rental sector that generated BRL 61.7 billion in 2025, with an active fleet of 1.717 million cars and light commercial vehicles, according to the Brazilian Car Rental Association (ABLA). The move places Airbnb in direct competition with Booking, Expedia, Kayak, Decolar, and CVC. The country is one of the company's five largest markets, with nights booked by Brazilian travelers rising over 30% year on year in the second quarter of 2026.

During an earnings call in August, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky described car rentals as the new service with the highest growth potential, noting that car reservations often outlast average home stays. Chesky also stated at the Skift Global Forum in New York that the platform is embracing features closer to traditional travel agencies. Shares of Airbnb have gained over 18% year to date.

The diversification arrives alongside regulatory debates in Brazil. In May 2026, the Superior Court of Justice voted 5 to 4 regarding condominium approval rules for short-term rentals, an issue now suspended pending a repetitive theme ruling. In São Paulo, the platform also began removing listings for social housing units following an inquiry by the municipal chamber.